Ghana Politics News

The latest Ghana politics coverage in one place: government and parliament, elections, policy, and the people shaping national life, from Accra to the regions. Stories are curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin and Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi Clash Over Legal Service in Defamation Suit
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Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin and Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi Clash Over Legal Service in Defamation Suit

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, are embroiled in an intensifying legal battle following a defamation suit filed by the lawmaker. Lawyers for Afenyo-Markin, Dehyena Chambers, have publicly dismissed claims that their client is evading service or that Gyamfi has not been properly notified of the proceedings. The dispute centers on comments made by Gyamfi during a media appearance on JoyNews, where he allegedly described Afenyo-Markin as an "extortionist" in relation to the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP). The procedural conflict began shortly after Afenyo-Markin announced the legal action in Parliament on August 24, 2026. Initially, Gyamfi appeared ready for the legal challenge, with his lawyers at Ayine & Partners formally notifying the High Court of their authority to accept the writ and accompanying documents on his behalf. However, the situation grew complex on August 26 when Gyamfi's legal team reportedly returned the served documents to the court registry, claiming their client had withdrawn his authorization for them to accept service. Subsequent attempts by a court bailiff to serve Gyamfi personally were also reported as unsuccessful. Afenyo-Markin’s legal team maintains that the service remains valid under Ghana’s civil procedure rules. They argue that once a defendant’s counsel accepts service with express authority, the legal requirement is met, regardless of a subsequent change of heart by the defendant. Dehyena Chambers emphasized that the return of the writ does not invalidate the initial acceptance. The Minority Leader is seeking several reliefs from the court, including general damages for defamation, a formal retraction of the "extortionist" comments, and a permanent injunction to prevent Gyamfi from making further defamatory statements against him. This legal confrontation underscores the growing political tensions surrounding the management and reported losses associated with the gold sector. While Gyamfi’s lawyers have clarified that their initial willingness to accept the writ did not constitute an admission of guilt, the back-and-forth over legal service has added a new layer of friction to the public dispute. As both parties prepare for a court showdown, the case is expected to draw significant public interest, highlighting the intersection of corporate governance at the Gold Board and political accountability within the Ghanaian legislature.

Stephen Donkor
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OSP Intensifies Aksa Probe Amid Strained Institutional Ties and Rising Calls for Political Finance Reform

Ghana's anti-corruption landscape has reached a critical juncture as the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) advances its investigation into the Aksa power deal bribery scandal, naming former Power Minister Dr. Kwabena Donkor as a person of interest. The probe follows the U.S. conviction of former banker Asante Kwaku Berko on August 6, 2026, for his role in the scheme. Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has urged investigators to broaden their scope to include $3 million in transfers documented between 2016 and 2017. Amidst these high-profile developments, President John Mahama has signaled strategic shifts through recent government reshuffles, while security officials raise alarms regarding organized political vigilantism as the country prepares for the 2028 general elections. Simultaneously, a public rift has emerged between the OSP and the Office of the Attorney-General. Samuel Appiah Darko, the OSP’s Director of Strategy, Research and Communications, recently stated that the Attorney-General’s office has repeatedly declined requests for collaboration on sensitive cases. This institutional friction has prompted calls from Members of Parliament, including Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah and Bernard Baidoo, to depersonalize the OSP and prioritize its legal mandate. While the OSP maintains that its behind-the-scenes work has already reduced corruption in areas such as the Customs Division's vehicle auctions, critics and political figures like the NPP’s Akosua Manu argue that the administration must do more to repair Ghana's international reputation following a series of corruption scandals. In the financial sector, a fierce debate continues over alleged losses at the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). While NPP leadership has claimed the country suffered a $1.7 billion loss under the program, GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi has refuted these allegations, pointing to operational surpluses in financial statements. The controversy has prompted chartered accountant Stephen Donkor to petition the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) for an independent technical review to settle the facts. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) regional chairmen have declared their unwavering support for Gyamfi, framing the attacks as a political distraction from the success of the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme. Legal proceedings against former officials also continue to progress through the courts. The Accra High Court recently denied a request for a lengthy adjournment in the trial of Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba, the former CEO of NAFCO, who faces charges related to financial misconduct. Similarly, the extortion case involving Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid has been adjourned to allow legal teams to respond to OSP affidavits. These cases highlight a broader push for accountability that Dr. John Osae-Kwapong of CDD-Ghana warns must not be allowed to revert to a system of "post-regime accountability," where officials are only held responsible after a change in government. To address the root causes of corruption, the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), with support from the British High Commission, has introduced a Draft Model Political Finance Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to curb the rising costs of political competition, which now exceed $100 million for contested elections, by introducing expenditure limits and donation regulations. As the Constitution Review process enters a new phase with an 11-member committee, these reforms are seen as vital steps toward ensuring that Ghana’s democratic institutions remain resilient and accessible to all citizens, rather than being dominated by the highest spenders.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin — Minority Leader
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President Mahama Swears in Key Ministers and Supreme Court Justices Amid Parliamentary Leadership Shift

President John Dramani Mahama has officially sworn in two new cabinet ministers and three Supreme Court justices during a ceremony at Jubilee House on August 29, 2026. Mahama Ayariga has assumed the role of Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, while Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings was sworn in as the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. The ceremony also marked the induction of Justice Edward Amoako Asante, Justice Sophia Rosetta Bernasko Essah, and Anthony Forson Jnr to the Supreme Court bench. President Mahama charged the new officials to uphold the principles of integrity, transparency, and accountability, reminding them that public office is a privilege aimed at serving the national interest. The appointments come alongside a significant transition in parliamentary leadership, as James Agalga, Member of Parliament for Builsa North, succeeds Mahama Ayariga as the new Majority Leader. In his acceptance speech, Agalga pledged a leadership style rooted in consensus-building and collaboration with the Minority Caucus to advance the government's legislative agenda. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin welcomed the new leadership, offering friendship and research resources to facilitate a smooth transition. However, the political atmosphere remained charged as the Minority Caucus had earlier staged a walkout during the vetting of the Supreme Court nominees, citing procedural concerns and a lack of sufficient notice for public participation. Policy directives for the new ministers are centered on the administration's "Reset" agenda. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has been tasked with providing decisive leadership in the fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, which continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. President Mahama urged her to leverage her medical background to address the intersection of environmental degradation and public health. Meanwhile, Mahama Ayariga is expected to revolutionize local governance by enhancing decentralization and implementing technology-driven systems for property rate collection, with an ambitious annual revenue target of GH"20 billion to empower local assemblies. While the government maintains that these appointments are necessary for national development, the process has faced criticism from various quarters. Dr. Joshua Ebuntie Zaato of the University of Ghana suggested the Supreme Court appointments could be perceived as a reversal of the NDC's previous stances on judicial nominations. Additionally, Duncan Amoah of COPEC criticized the frequent recalls of Parliament for such business, arguing that poor legislative coordination creates an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers. Despite these tensions, both Ayariga and Agyeman-Rawlings have reaffirmed their commitment to delivering on the promises made during the 2024 election campaign, emphasizing a focus on job creation, scientific innovation, and disciplined urban development.

Roads Minister satisfied with progress on Atimpoku–Asikuma junction road project
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Minister Agbodza Unveils Sustainability Strategy for US$10 Billion Big Push Infrastructure Amidst Major Energy and Governance Reforms

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has announced a strategic shift in Ghana’s infrastructure management to ensure the long-term sustainability of the US$10 billion ‘Big Push’ road program. Addressing concerns raised by the World Bank regarding future maintenance liabilities, Agbodza emphasized moving from a cycle of ‘build-deteriorate-rehabilitate’ to a ‘build-maintain-preserve’ approach. To support this, the government is operationalizing the Road Maintenance Trust Fund and reintroducing electronic road and bridge tolls. These measures aim to address the historical underfunding that has left significant portions of the national road network in poor condition. Concurrently, the Ministry of Works and Housing is set to launch the Kaneshie drainage improvement project on September 7, 2026, as part of the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) initiative to mitigate perennial flooding. In the energy sector, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has launched a major electrification project under the Rural Electrification Acceleration and Urban Intensification Initiative (REIP). This project will extend electricity to 206 communities across 18 districts in the Volta Region, aiming to catalyze socio-economic development and job creation. Further strengthening the national grid, the government is procuring Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to improve power supply reliability and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. This transition is being supported by calls for increased public-private partnerships to mobilize investment for a sustainable energy future, as highlighted during the 2026 Energy Sustainability Leadership Conference. Local governance and sectoral reforms are also advancing, with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) announcing plans to manufacture and emboss number plates in-house by late 2026 to enhance security and eliminate counterfeit plates. In the Ho Municipality, MCE Stephen Adom has outlined plans for new lorry stations and the operationalization of the Sokode Abattoir to alleviate urban congestion and improve public health standards. However, some regions face challenges; in Tsumkpo, unauthorized sand-winning has destroyed over 50 acres of farmland, prompting calls for stricter regulatory enforcement. Meanwhile, in the education sector, Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua has advocated for a redesign of student politics to reduce the influence of the NPP and NDC on university campuses, promoting more independent student activism. Institutional and religious leaders are also navigating new roles within the current administration. President John Mahama recently hosted the new executive presbytery of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, where he was commended for his consistent support of the church. In a significant cultural shift, the Presbyterian Church of Ghana has revised its constitution to allow members to serve in traditional leadership roles, provided they renounce rituals conflicting with Christian doctrine. As the government grapples with project delays—such as the 17-kilometre Tema-Dawhenya road rehabilitation currently at 23% completion—Minister Agbodza has urged contractors to increase manpower to meet development goals and ease the public's transportation burdens.

Tourism Ministry must look beyond culture – Oswald Okaitei
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Zambian Opposition Leader Brian Mundubile Detained for Treason as Regional Leaders Push for Institutional Accountability

The African political landscape faces significant turbulence this week, headlined by the arrest of Zambian opposition leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, on charges of treason. Mundubile, who surrendered after two weeks in hiding following a police summons, had been disputing the results of the August 13 presidential election, which saw incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema secure a second term with 60% of the vote. The detention follows a violent security raid linked to the opposition that resulted in the death of a former cabinet minister. Despite allegations from authorities that the opposition was planning an armed insurgency, Mundubile had sought refuge with international human rights bodies, citing threats to his life. The situation has intensified concerns over democratic space in Zambia, as the opposition reported that courts were sealed off to prevent legal challenges to the election results ahead of Hichilema’s inauguration on September 1. In Ghana, the political discourse has shifted toward institutional efficiency and government accountability. Dancehall artist Shatta Wale has ignited a national debate by calling for the dissolution of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, arguing it lacks the innovative vision required to support Ghanaian creatives globally. Beyond his critique of the ministry, the musician claimed the government owes him GH"5 million for promotional work during the 2026 World Cup campaign. Amidst these calls for reform, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang recently received the Democracy Cup on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House. The ceremony served as a reminder of the administration's commitment to participatory governance, with the Vice President urging citizens to maintain peaceful political discourse and safeguard the nation's democratic unity. Broader regional shifts continue to unfold, with Nigeria and Tanzania undergoing significant leadership and structural changes. President Bola Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive reform of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following the resignation of its top executives, citing the need for better management after the national teams failed to qualify for major competitions. Simultaneously, Tanzania’s governing Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has expelled former Vice President Emmanuel Nchimbi following his resignation, citing indiscipline. Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi has been nominated as his successor. These developments underscore a growing trend across the continent where heads of state are under increasing pressure to deliver tangible results and maintain party cohesion amidst economic and social challenges. On the international stage, Ghana remains a focal point for diplomacy and security cooperation. The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra recently hosted a UN Military Observers Training of Trainers course, funded by Canada, to bolster global peacekeeping capacity. This initiative highlights Ghana's strategic role as a gateway to West Africa and its deepening ties with partners like Malta, with whom it shares a seat on the UN Security Council. As diplomatic appointments shift globally—including a series of new ambassadorial postings by Chinese President Xi Jinping to nations like Uganda and Australia—the focus for African governments remains fixed on balancing domestic stability with international cooperation and the rule of law.

Francis Poku, former Minister of National Security, addressing the National Policy Dialogue. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Interior Minister Muntaka Proposes Mandatory Drug Testing for Public Sector Amid Updates on Election Violence and Vigilantism

Ghana’s Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has announced plans to implement mandatory drug testing for all public sector job applicants. This proposal follows the disqualification of over 6,000 candidates during a recent recruitment exercise who tested positive for illicit substances or displayed mental health issues. Speaking at the inauguration of a new classroom block at Sakafiya Islamic Senior High School, the Minister emphasized that the measure is necessary to ensure the integrity of the nation’s security services and public administration. He also expressed grave concern over the rising availability of drugs in secondary schools, urging educators and parents to monitor students closely to prevent substance abuse from derailing their academic futures. Providing an update on the state of political security, Minister Muntaka revealed that 26 suspects have been arraigned in connection with violence during the 2020 and 2024 elections. While 25 individuals are currently standing trial, one high-profile suspect, Abdul Latif Copshe—wanted for murder—remains at large despite recently being declared the unopposed Youth Organiser for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in his constituency. This update coincided with a National Policy Dialogue where former National Security Ministers Albert Kan-Dapaah and Francis Poku shared differing views on political violence. While Kan-Dapaah argued that ending vigilantism requires dismantling the demand for such services among political elites, Poku labeled the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act of 2019 as "unenforceable" and called for its repeal in favor of better private security regulations. In the realm of environmental security, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been active in protecting Ghana’s water bodies. A joint operation with the Ghana Armed Forces and Police recently led to the arrest of ten miners, including three Chinese nationals, for illegal activities threatening the Black Volta River. However, the secretariat also found itself defending its reputation following a fatal shooting in Akyem Hemang. Both NAIMOS and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources have denied involvement, asserting that the incident was likely perpetrated by impersonators wearing military uniforms. They emphasized that no NAIMOS operations were active in that area at the time and called for media houses to verify claims before publishing damaging reports. Legal proceedings and institutional reforms also remain at the forefront of the national agenda. In Accra, the High Court denied a request by the former CEO of NAFCO, Hanan Abdul-Wahab Aludiba, to delay his financial impropriety trial until October 2026, granting only a short adjournment for health reasons. Additionally, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has issued a directive for motorists to yield to armored bullion vehicles (ABVs) following stricter construction standards for cash-in-transit vehicles. These developments reflect a broader push by the Ministry for the Interior to build civilian trust and modernize security protocols to address emerging regional threats and internal political volatility.

Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo — Reassigned as Minister of State for Special Initiatives
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President Mahama Reshuffles Cabinet as Dr. Rashid Pelpuo Rates Government Job Creation at B+ Amid Industrial Peace

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a strategic reshuffle of his administration, reassigning key officials to strengthen government performance. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo has been moved to the position of Minister of State for Special Initiatives, with Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum taking over his previous role as Minister of Labour, Employment, and Job Creation. Additionally, Ernest Brogya Genfi has transitioned from Deputy Minister for Defence to become a Presidential Advisor on National Resilience and Emergency Preparedness. These changes come as Dr. Pelpuo defends the government's labor record, revealing that his tenure successfully averted approximately 90% of planned industrial actions through proactive dialogue with labor unions, including the resolution of a potential strike by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA). In a recent assessment of the administration's economic impact, Dr. Pelpuo graded the government’s job creation efforts as a "B+," asserting that the nation is nearing an "A" grade through a multisectoral approach. He highlighted the ongoing implementation of the 24-hour economy initiative by over 400 private companies and the upcoming launch of the National Workplace Compliance and Safety Management System (NWCSMS), which aims to digitize workplace inspections. Despite this optimism, the government faces calls for deeper scrutiny into social issues. Akosua Manu, a Gender and Social Protection Advisor to the NPP, has urged Parliament to conduct a bipartisan inquiry into maternal health following the deaths of 965 women from pregnancy complications in 2025, stressing that policy commitments must translate into improved healthcare delivery. Parallel to these executive shifts, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, led by Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has launched its 2026 Mid-Year Performance Review and 2027 Strategic Planning Workshop. The ministry is currently developing a recovery plan to address challenges in human resource capacity and financing to better serve vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, the National Media Commission (NMC) has inaugurated a new nine-member board for the Graphic Communications Group Ltd, chaired by Prof. Samuel K. Hayford. These institutional updates coincide with the Right to Information Commission (RTIC) announcing a month of activities for September 2026 under the theme of upholding information integrity in the digital age. Reinforcing the need for transparency and institutional integrity, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin recently urged media practitioners to remain committed to accuracy and fairness to combat misinformation. Speaking at a National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) event, Bagbin emphasized that media responsibility is crucial for sustaining Ghana's democracy. This call for ethical governance was echoed by IMANI Senior Fellow Ato Coleman, who advocated for "Ubuntu leadership" grounded in personal values and emotional intelligence. As the Mahama administration moves into the latter half of 2026, the focus remains on aligning resource management with strategic priorities to ensure inclusive growth and national cohesion.

Alberta Sunu — Women’s Organiser for the NDC in the Weija-Gbawe Constituency
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NPP and NDC Intensify Internal Reorganizations Ahead of 2026 National Executive Elections and 2028 General Polls

The Ghanaian political landscape is witnessing a surge in activity as both the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepare for critical internal elections. For the NPP, the 2026 National Executive Elections have drawn high-profile candidates, including former Information Minister Nana Akomea, who has officially filed his nomination for the First Vice Chairman position. Akomea, a veteran strategist and former MP for Okaikwei South, is among 13 aspirants vying for three vice-chairmanship slots. Meanwhile, Eugene Boakye Antwi has filed for the General Secretary position, pledging to restore discipline and accountability within the party. These internal races are seen as pivotal for the NPP as it reorganizes following its 2024 defeat, with various aspirants like National Youth Organiser hopeful Abanga Yakubu promising to mobilize four million youth votes for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2028 general elections. A significant development in the NPP race is the withdrawal of Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, from the national chairmanship contest. Currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for mining rights violations, Antwi-Boasiako cited personal circumstances for his withdrawal. His legal troubles have intensified as the High Court in Accra recently ordered disclosures to proceed in a separate GH¢30 million fraud trial involving the Ghana Export-Import Bank after plea negotiations failed. With his exit, the chairmanship race remains a contest between Sammy Crabbe, Paul Afoko, and Boakye Agyarko, the latter of whom has emphasized an inclusive administration aimed at reuniting the party to "recapture" power in 2028. This call for unity is echoed by regional leaders like Alhaji Issa Issaka, who urged newly elected executives to engage veteran party members to leverage their experience for grassroots mobilization. The NDC is also navigating its own internal transitions as it seeks to consolidate the legacy of President John Mahama, who was inaugurated on January 7, 2025. Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Akwasi Opong-Fosu has announced his bid for the NDC National Chairmanship, challenging the incumbent Johnson Asiedu Nketiah. Opong-Fosu’s campaign, anchored on the pillars of "Restoration, Renewal, and Resetting," aims to strengthen the bond between party leadership and grassroots members. Other notable NDC developments include the candidacy of Nii Armah Ashietey for the chairmanship and Abraham Azuman Lambon, a Technical Aide to President Mahama, for the Deputy National Organizer position. At the constituency level, Alberta Sunu is seeking to become the first female chairperson of the NDC in Weija-Gbawe, promising to end a 24-year parliamentary drought in the area. As both parties head toward their respective national congresses—the NPP in October 2026 and the NDC on December 19, 2026—the emphasis remains on resource allocation and strategic mobilization. Efforts to equip the grassroots are already underway, evidenced by MP Samuel Abu Jinapor’s donation of 100 motorbikes and a pickup vehicle to the Damongo constituency to enhance party operations. These internal elections represent more than just leadership changes; they are the foundation upon which both the NPP and NDC intend to build their strategies for the 2028 general elections. The outcomes will likely determine which party best manages its internal divisions and successfully taps into the energy of the youth and the experience of its veterans to sway an increasingly sophisticated electorate.

Parliament unanimously approves Ayariga, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings
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Parliament Unanimously Approves Mahama Ayariga and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings for Ministerial Portfolios

Parliament has granted unanimous approval for the appointment of Mahama Ayariga as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology. The decision, reached on August 27, 2026, followed a rigorous vetting session by the Appointments Committee. These appointments are central to President John Mahama’s strategy to strengthen local governance and environmental sustainability. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin congratulated the duo, noting the significant responsibilities ahead as they transition from their legislative roles to executive portfolios, particularly for Mr. Ayariga, the immediate former Majority Leader. During his vetting, Mahama Ayariga outlined an ambitious plan to revolutionize local government financing, projecting that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) could generate up to GH"20 billion annually through property rates. To achieve this, Ayariga proposed a fully digital revenue management system designed to eliminate human interference and prevent the diversion of assembly funds. He emphasized the need for a nationwide property identification and valuation exercise to ensure fair rate assessments. By centralizing monitoring and leveraging technology, the Minister-designate aims to make local assemblies financially independent and more accountable to the public. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings presented a robust agenda for her sector, focusing heavily on the fight against illegal mining, or "galamsey." She advocated for an "all-of-government" approach, emphasizing that coordination between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and decentralized agencies is vital to restoring Ghana’s polluted water bodies and degraded forests. Beyond mining, she proposed channeling funding to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to develop biodegradable alternatives to plastics using local crops such as cassava and hemp. Her vision includes a potential ban on single-use plastics within six months and the implementation of stricter landfill standards to protect groundwater and soil quality. The vetting process also featured moments of civic reflection and cross-party camaraderie. Ayariga was notably asked to recite the national pledge by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, a request that highlighted the importance of national identity in public service. Despite their political differences, Ayariga lauded his friendship with Afenyo-Markin, describing him as a man of integrity and honesty. As both ministers prepare to take office, they face the dual challenge of managing their new ministries while maintaining their parliamentary duties, a balance Speaker Bagbin warned would require exceptional dedication and discipline.

Stephen Donkor
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Ghana's Governance Under Scrutiny: OSP Revives Aksa Bribery Probe Amidst $1.7 Billion GoldBod Controversy

President John Mahama’s administration is currently navigating a complex political landscape marked by high-stakes corruption investigations and intense fiscal debates. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has announced a "rebirth" of its operations, naming former Power Minister Dr. Kwabena Donkor and four others as persons of interest in the Aksa power deal bribery investigation. This renewed focus follows a Supreme Court decision affirming the OSP's authority and coincides with the U.S. conviction of Kwaku Asante Berko for his role in bribing Ghanaian officials. Concurrently, a fierce political battle has erupted over the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP), with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) alleging a staggering $1.7 billion (GH"22 billion) loss, a claim vigorously contested by the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). The GoldBod controversy has deeply polarized the political establishment. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has spearheaded calls for a parliamentary probe into the alleged financial mismanagement, garnering strong support from the NPP’s Central Regional branch. In response, GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi has refuted the allegations, asserting that the institution has achieved operational surpluses within 18 months of its establishment and that any reported losses are accounting entries within the Bank of Ghana rather than GoldBod. This defense is bolstered by the sixteen regional chairmen of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Community Focus Foundation Ghana (CFF-Ghana), who have condemned the attacks as politically motivated. To provide a non-partisan resolution, Chartered Accountant Stephen Donkor has petitioned the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) for an independent professional opinion to clarify whether the $1.7 billion figure represents an actual accounting loss. On the anti-corruption and legal front, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is leveraging his office’s mandate to investigate the local aspects of the $1 million Aksa bribery case. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of the illicit payments involving energy sector professionals. Meanwhile, in separate legal proceedings, investigators from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) recently testified in court regarding former National Signals Bureau Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene. The testimony clarified that specific funds from the UMB Operations account were not traced to a company owned by his wife, providing a rare moment of investigative clarity amidst broader allegations of financial impropriety. These developments are unfolding against a broader backdrop of constitutional and electoral reform as the country looks toward the 2028 elections. President Mahama has recently executed ministerial reshuffles to optimize government performance and has inaugurated an 11-member committee to advance the Constitution Review process. However, security experts and political analysts remain wary, raising alarms over the persistence of organized political vigilantism despite existing legislative bans. As Ghana's democratic institutions face these multifaceted challenges, the coming months will test the country’s ability to uphold transparency, ensure accountability for public funds, and maintain social stability ahead of the next national polls.

Douglas Quartey — Local Governance Expert
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Attorney-General Dominic Ayine Inaugurates Constitution Review Implementation Committee to Reform 1992 Charter and Regulate Political Financing

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has officially inaugurated an 11-member Constitution Review Implementation Committee (CRIC) tasked with transforming long-standing reform recommendations into actionable legislation. Chaired by Marietta Brew, the committee is mandated to evaluate the government's position paper alongside the findings of the Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh Constitution Review Committee, which was established by President John Mahama. The CRIC’s primary objective is to develop a framework for implementing accepted proposals concerning presidential terms, parliamentary size, and citizens' rights, with a deadline to prepare the first batch of bills for non-entrenched provisions by November 2026. This process could lead to a national referendum during the 2027 district assembly elections. The committee’s composition has drawn significant attention following the appointment of lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor as its Secretary. Barker-Vormawor, a co-founder of the #FixTheCountry movement and a prominent figure in the Democracy Hub, has affirmed that his role within the government-led technocratic process will not diminish his 17-year advocacy for a "New Constitution for a New Generation." While acknowledging the difficulties of achieving political consensus, Barker-Vormawor and Chairperson Marietta Brew emphasized that the committee's work is focused on translating public aspirations into legal measures rather than re-evaluating the 1992 Constitution from scratch. The committee is expected to maintain comprehensive records and create a structured roadmap to ensure the process remains inclusive and transparent. Parallel to these constitutional efforts, the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), with support from the British High Commission, has introduced a Draft Model Political Finance Bill to address the corrosive effects of money in politics. With evidence suggesting that campaign spending for contested elections now exceeds $100 million, the bill proposes strict expenditure limits, donation regulations, and enhanced disclosure requirements to align Ghana with international anti-corruption standards. CDD-Ghana’s Director, Frederick Adu-Gyamfi, warned that the current monetization of the electoral process threatens the integrity of the nation's democracy and creates barriers for less-resourced but capable candidates. Complementing these national reforms is a growing debate over the nature of local governance. Expert Douglas Quartey recently urged a re-evaluation of non-partisan district assembly elections, arguing that research shows a strong public preference for partisan local governance to improve accountability. These converging initiatives—the CRIC’s constitutional work, CDD-Ghana’s finance regulations, and the push for local government reform—represent a comprehensive effort by the Mahama administration and civil society to modernize Ghana's democratic framework and restore public trust in political institutions.

President John Dramani Mahama (right) exchanging pleasantries with Dr Cassiel Ato Forson (left), Minister of Finance and committee Chair
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President Mahama Drives Economic Revitalisation Through Industrial Hubs, Infrastructure Expansion, and Procurement Reform

President John Dramani Mahama has launched a multi-sectoral development agenda focused on industrialization, regional stability, and infrastructure modernization. Central to this effort is the inauguration of a steering committee to manage the GH""1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund. Chaired by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the fund is designed to restore Bawku as a commercial hub following a period of conflict. During the ceremony, President Mahama emphasized that improving security and investing in essential infrastructure are critical steps toward ensuring long-term prosperity and social services in the region. In the aviation sector, the President broke ground for a massive expansion at Accra International Airport (AIA), featuring a seven-storey complex with a 2,030-bay car park and two hotels (a 120-room five-star and a 250-room three-star facility). This project aims to accommodate passenger traffic that has surged to 2.5 million in 2025. Complementing this physical expansion, the President announced that aircraft spare parts imported by domestic airlines will be exempt from customs duties under the new Ghana Customs Act to enhance safety and lower maintenance costs. He also endorsed a strict crackdown on unprofessional behavior at the airport, which saw the dismissal of workers for soliciting tips from visitors, asserting that such practices tarnish Ghana's international image. Parallel to infrastructure growth, President Mahama is championing a ""Ghana-first"" industrial strategy. He recently opened the Northshore Apparel Hub in Savelugu, which is projected to create 30,000 jobs, primarily for young women, in an effort to curb north-south migration. To support such domestic industries, the government is amending the Public Procurement Act to mandate that state institutions prioritize locally manufactured goods, such as uniforms and protective gear, from licensed Ghanaian producers. Furthermore, a proposed net-metering bill will soon allow businesses with solar installations, like the Northshore hub, to sell surplus electricity back to the national grid, creating a more sustainable energy framework. In a move to ensure fiscal discipline and resource availability for new businesses, President Mahama has pledged full support to the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) in recovering funds from loan defaulters. Speaking at the Northshore commissioning, he expressed concern over politically connected individuals who take loans without the intention of repayment, emphasizing that these funds are vital for financing viable projects that drive national growth. This comprehensive approach across peacebuilding, energy, and industry signals the administration's commitment to balanced national development and economic self-reliance.